Image Credits: Imago Images
Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong, Joe Gomez, Calvin Ramsay, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo and Curtis Jones all featured at right-back for Liverpool last season, though only three are natural options in the role.
In a campaign where Liverpool were overrun in midfield and stretched defensively, injuries to first-choice options Bradley and Frimpong forced constant reshuffling, leaving Arne Slot with limited continuity and control in key areas.
Despite those issues, it would not have been a surprise if sporting director Richard Hughes and the recruitment team had chosen to stand pat, potentially reinforcing centre-back depth instead after the departure of Ibrahima Konate, with greater reliance placed on Joe Gomez’s versatility and young defenders Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet.
However, the club remain open to opportunities in the market and are prepared to act if a senior centre-back becomes available at the right price.
One player under consideration is Tottenham Hotspur defender Luka Vuskovic, who is being monitored as Liverpool assess defensive options ahead of the new season.
Vuskovic spent last season on loan at Bundesliga side Hamburg, where he enhanced his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders.
He is currently with Croatia at the FIFA World Cup. He featured in the 4-2 defeat to England last Wednesday. The centre-back is understood to be keen on becoming a regular starter at senior level and is not interested in another loan move next season.
Interest in Vuskovic has intensified, with Brighton & Hove Albionhaving an initial bid rejected by Tottenham Hotspur before returning with an improved offer reportedly worth €52m including bonuses.
According to Sky Sports in Germany, Tottenham have so far turned down the latest proposal, although negotiations are said to be ongoing as clubs continue to assess a potential deal for the highly rated defender.
Brighton are continuing their push to sign Vuskovic, with the player also keen on the move. A full agreement is reportedly already in place over a five- to six-year contract, with Vuskovic open to the switch.
The situation now hinges on final negotiations between clubs, as Brighton look to secure one of Europe’s most highly rated young centre-backs after a strong loan spell at Hamburg.